If you have decided that a tree on your property has died or is dying and is a danger to the surrounding area, you will need to get it removed as quickly as possible. This will allow you to keep your family and your property safe should a storm hit that could potentially destabilize a dying tree. However, getting a tree removed is not as simple a process as you might assume. Here are some tips for navigating the tree removal process.

1. Double Check That the Removal of the Tree is Entirely Up to You

Even if a tree is on your property entirely, the removal of it might not be entirely your decision depending on the zoning laws of your locality. You will first need to check with your city's government to make sure that you have the full right to remove the tree. If the city does not care whether or not you remove it, you will then need to check with your county. You can perform both of these checks by calling the respective local governments. They might need you undergo an inspection and get their permission before you have the tree removed. The upside of this is that they might be able to help cover some or all of the tree removal costs since it is partially their decision. Talk to your local government for more information.

2. Check to Be Sure that the Cost of the Stump Removal is Included in the Cost of the Tree's Removal

Your second step is to get an estimate from the tree company. When you have this estimate, you will need to be sure that the estimate and final cost that they eventually give you includes the cost of removing the stump. If they don't include the cost of the stump in with the overall estimate, you are either going to end up paying more money than you had originally assumed or you are going to try to get rid of the stump itself. This can be a difficult process that is best left to the professionals. 

3. Talk to Your Neighbors in Writing

Finally, if your neighbors have a tree that is hanging over your property or that you think is dead and needs to be removed because it falling could damage your property, you will need to write a letter to your neighbor and have it certified and dated requesting that they remove the tree. Keep a copy of this letter on file in case the neighbors do not comply. You can show this letter to your home insurance company in order to make sure that they validate your claim and pay for as much of the damages to your home as possible.

For more information, talk to a company that specializes intree removal.